Daughters of the Sea :: Hannah Book Review

Daughters of the Sea :: Hannah Book Review - Reviewed by Kidzworld on Oct 12, 2009

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As an orphan, Hannah is trying to make a living as a scullery girl to a rich family in Boston. But she soon discovers that she is destined for so much more. Check out Daughtes of the Sea by Kathryn Lasky.

Author: Kathryn Lasky

Hannah grew up in The Home for Little Wanderers in Boston, an orphanage that girls must leave once they reach the ripe old age of 14. But when it’s Hannah’s turn to make her way in the world, the orphanage deems her unfit to work in Boston society. She’s sent inland on the orphan train. And during her journey, her body changes in a frightening and unusual way—her body swells and begins to shed salt crystals.

Making Her Way

Hannah is sent back to Boston and immediately her body returns to normal. She lands a job as a scullery girl with one of the most prestigious families in Boston. Hannah wants nothing more than to fit in and stay under the radar. But that’s hard to do now that the family has returned from their trip abroad. The daughters have taken a particular interest in Hannah. The youngest, Ettie, who has a habit of speaking very boldly for their time, enjoys Hannah’s company. The oldest, Lila, is a different story.

Awakening Her Identity

Lila and her murderous cat act like Siamese twins, both of whom want nothing more than to get Hannah fired. Especially now since the portrait painter who Lila fancies, Mr. Wheeler, can’t keep his eyes off Hannah. He knows that there’s something special about Hannah, something that she herself doesn’t even know. Mr. Wheeler helps Hannah awaken her true identity.

The Bottom Line

Daughters of the Sea: Hannah is the first book in a new young-adult series by Kathryn Lasky. The story is an entertaining quick read. If you’re interested in reading about mystical beings—particularly mermaids—and you enjoy reading about the late 19th century, then you’ll really enjoy Daughters of the Sea.